Name: Homemade Barbecue Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups ketchup; 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon paprika; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoons onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons molasses; 2 teaspoons mustard; Water (as needed, optional)

Description

This homemade barbecue sauce recipe combines tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors into a versatile sauce perfect for grilling, dipping, or marinating. Made from simple pantry ingredients like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, and spices, it simmers on the stovetop to develop a rich and balanced taste. Ideal for enhancing meats or adding a flavorful kick to your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

Barbecue Sauce Ingredients

1 ½ cups ketchup
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons molasses
2 teaspoons mustard
Water (as needed, optional)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, molasses, and mustard until fully combined.
Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure flavors meld.
Adjust Consistency: While the sauce simmers, you can add a few tablespoons of water if you prefer a thinner consistency. Stir well to incorporate the water and achieve your desired thickness.
Cool and Serve: The sauce can be served immediately if you’re short on time. For best flavor, transfer it to a container, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to deepen before serving.

Notes

The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level.
Molasses adds a rich sweetness and depth, but can be substituted with honey if necessary.
If a smoother sauce is preferred, blend with an immersion blender after cooking.
Use as a marinade, dipping sauce, or glaze for grilled meats and vegetables.